Almost Heaven Audra 4-Person Barrel Sauna

The Almost Heaven Audra utilizes 1-3/8-inch thick solid Western red cedar staves, assembled using a traditional ball-and-socket profile. This thickness provides decent insulation for outdoor use in standard climates, though colder winter regions might require the optional heater upgrade to maintain peak temperatures. The wood naturally resists decay and smells great when heated, requiring minimal maintenance beyond occasional cleaning.

Out of the box, the unit relies on a standard 4.5 kW electric heater that demands a dedicated 240V, 30-amp hardwired electrical connection. Plan to hire an electrician if you do not already have outdoor 240V service ready. The heater brings the room up to traditional sweating temperatures (175-185°F) in about 45 to 60 minutes. If you live in a colder climate or want faster heat-up times, upgrading to a 6 kW heater is worth considering.

Assembling the kit takes two people roughly 4 to 6 hours using basic tools like a cordless drill and a rubber mallet. The staves lock together neatly into the weather-resistant plastic support cradles, and stainless steel bands hold the cylindrical structure tight. The 1-foot exterior canopy porch adds a nice functional touch for sitting outside to cool down, though the small exterior benches are strictly for brief rests rather than lounging.